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UK family visas

UK spouse and family visas

Spouse, fiancé(e), unmarried partner, child and parent visas for the UK. Plain answers on who can apply, what you need to show and what happens next.

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£29,000
Usual combined income needed
2 yrs 9 mths
Length of the first visa
~12 weeks
Usual decision time from India
5 years
On the visa before you can settle

Figures are from GOV.UK for a partner or spouse visa, checked October 2026. They can change.

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Which sounds like you?

Tap the line that fits your situation. Each one opens a short page for that visa.

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Spouse, fiancé(e), unmarried partner or marriage visitor?

Four routes people often mix up. The main difference is whether you are already married, and whether you plan to stay.

Spouse or partner
Married or in a civil partnership. Up to 2 years 9 months, then settle after 5 years.
Fiancé(e)
Engaged, and will marry in the UK within 6 months. Extend as a partner after the wedding.
Unmarried partner
Together at least 2 years. Same family visa as a spouse, with more weight on evidence.
Marriage visitor
Marry in the UK for up to 6 months, then go home. You cannot stay or switch.

How it works

A UK partner application, in order

The order is much the same for every partner route.

  1. Step 1

    Pick the right visa

    Spouse, fiancé(e), unmarried partner or marriage visitor. Choosing the wrong one costs time and money.

  2. Step 2

    Check the money

    Work out whether your income, or savings, meet the financial requirement and can be proved the right way.

  3. Step 3

    Book your English test

    Take an approved test at the right level, unless you are exempt.

  4. Step 4

    Gather your evidence

    Relationship evidence, income documents, identity and the other papers each route needs.

  5. Step 5

    Apply and attend biometrics

    Apply online, then give your fingerprints and photo at a visa application centre.

  6. Step 6

    Decision, travel and settling in

    A decision usually takes about 12 weeks from outside the UK. Then plan the first visa and the road to settlement.

Guides

The three things every case turns on

Money, English and settlement. Read these before you apply.

How we help

How we help with your UK family visa

From your first call to your decision, in this order.

  1. Step 1

    A first consultation

    We listen to your situation and tell you which UK route fits, and whether your case is strong.

  2. Step 2

    Eligibility and money check

    We check your relationship, your partner's status, the income and the English requirement.

  3. Step 3

    Evidence plan

    We list exactly what to collect and what to leave out, so your file is clear and consistent.

  4. Step 4

    Application review

    We review your forms and documents before you submit.

  5. Step 5

    Decision and next steps

    After the decision we help you plan the first visa, the extension and settlement.

  6. Step 6

    If you were refused before

    We read the refusal reasons and tell you honestly whether and how to try again.

Avoid these

Mistakes that cost couples time and money

  • Applying as a dependant when the partner is British, which needs a spouse visa
  • Counting income that does not meet the evidence rules
  • Relationship evidence that is thin, old or inconsistent
  • Choosing a fiancé(e) visa when a spouse visa would count towards settlement
  • Using an English test that is not on the approved list

FAQs

UK spouse visa questions

What is the UK spouse visa?
It is the UK family visa for a partner or spouse. It lets you live in the UK with a British, Irish or settled partner, and can lead to settlement after 5 years.
What is the difference between a spouse visa and a dependant visa?
A spouse visa is for the partner of a British or settled person. A dependant visa is for the partner or child of someone on a UK work or study visa.
How much income do we need for a UK spouse visa?
For most new applications, a combined income of at least £29,000 a year, or an allowed alternative such as savings. The rules on proving it are strict.
How long does a UK spouse visa take from India?
GOV.UK says a decision usually takes about 12 weeks from outside the UK. Check the current time before you plan travel.
Do I need an English test for a UK spouse visa?
Usually yes, at level A1 for the first application, unless you are exempt or hold a qualifying degree. The level rises at extension and settlement.
Can I apply as an unmarried partner?
Yes, if you have been in a relationship for at least 2 years. Same-sex couples can apply. Evidence of the relationship is the key.
Can I marry in the UK and then stay?
Yes, with a fiancé(e) visa, which lasts 6 months. After the wedding you apply to extend as a partner. A Marriage Visitor visa does not let you stay.
Can my children come with me?
Children under 18 can usually be included in a partner application, or apply separately in some cases.
How long until I can settle in the UK?
Usually after 5 years on a family visa as a partner, with the Life in the UK test and the right level of English. Rules can change, so check the current position.
Can you help me if I live outside the UK?
Yes. We work with UK family cases remotely, with clients in many countries. Book a consultation to find out which route fits you.

This page is general information based on GOV.UK, not legal advice. Fees, income figures and rules change. Always confirm the current position before you apply.

Let's map your global pathway

A first consultation covers eligibility, realistic timelines, total cost and the tax consequences of the move. You leave with a written plan, not a brochure.

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